How sweepstakes casinos worked
Sweepstakes casinos use two virtual currencies. One is for entertainment only; the other can be redeemed for cash prizes and is usually given away as a “bonus” when players buy packages of the first currency. Operators argued this was a sweepstakes promotion rather than gambling, which allowed them to operate in states without legal online casinos.
The state bans
Regulators and lawmakers increasingly treated the dual-currency model as illegal gambling. According to industry trackers:
- New Jersey banned sweepstakes casinos with a law effective in August 2025.
- New York banned them with a law effective in December 2025.
- California banned them with AB 831, effective 1 January 2026, with penalties that also reach suppliers.
- Oklahoma has a ban scheduled to take effect on 1 November 2026.
Other states have banned the model through new laws or existing gambling statutes. Lists differ between sources, so check your state’s current position.
Pragmatic Play’s exit
According to industry reports, Pragmatic Play first said in September 2025 that it would stop licensing games to sweepstakes operators in states with restrictions, and in August 2026 stepped back from the US sweepstakes market nationwide after being named in a lawsuit concerning a sweepstakes operator in California. As a result, Sweet Bonanza and other Pragmatic Play games are disappearing from sweepstakes lobbies.
Be careful with “Sweet Bonanza” on sweepstakes sites now
If a sweepstakes site still shows a game called Sweet Bonanza after the provider’s exit, be cautious: it may be an outdated listing, a different game with a similar name, or an unofficial copy. Check the provider’s logo and the information panel.
Legal alternatives
- State-licensed online casinos in regulated states, for players 21+ — see Sweet Bonanza by US state.
- The free demo, legal everywhere — play it here.
Frequently asked questions
Why did Sweet Bonanza disappear from my sweepstakes casino?
According to industry reports, Pragmatic Play stopped supplying US sweepstakes operators in 2026, following state bans and litigation.
Are sweepstakes casinos legal?
Several states, including California, New York and New Jersey, have banned the dual-currency model. Check your state’s current law.
Where can I play Sweet Bonanza legally in the US now?
At state-licensed online casinos in regulated states (21+), or in the free demo anywhere.